The good news is that the details of the all-new Volkswagen GTI have finally been revealed. The bad news is we have to wait another year before it goes on
sale in the United States.

The MkVII 4 Volkswagen GTI is based on new architecture that also underpins the latest Audi A3. It is lower, longer and wider, but manages to drop about 220
pounds compared to the model it replaces, thanks to a comprehensive weight-loss program that shaves ounces from anywhere possible. For example, the chassis
uses more lightweight steel, and the air conditioning unit is six pounds lighter than the old one.

And as weight goes down, power goes up. Volkswagen's latest turbocharged four-cylinder engine in the new GTI gains 20 horsepower over the previous version,
for a total of 220 hp. An optional performance pack boosts it even higher, to 230 hp.

The performance pack will be available on European models, which hit showrooms in May. Spokesman Mark Gillies said VW is investigating offering the
performance pack in the United States, which would require some tweaking, given the different emissions standards and fuel quality.

The 2014 Volkswagen GTI is 18 percent more fuel efficient than the model it replaces, thanks to new fuel-saving technology like a start/stop feature, which
shuts down the engine during temporary stops.

Updates to the car's design are evolutionary, as expected. The overall shape changes little, but it looks like it spent the winter at the gym and got more
trim and fit. The details that make the most difference. The front end looks more aggressive, with larger air inlets covered with slats. Headlights and
taillights now incorporate trendy LEDs, which not only shine brighter than conventional bulbs, but also use less energy. Inside, the GTI's signature plaid
seat fabric persists.

With improvements in every respect, the new GTI shows the kind of progress every enthusiast can appreciate. Too bad we have to wait so long before getting one in the
United States.